COMMUNITY FORUM

Installing MDF baseboards

Hello all. This is my first posting here. I want to install new MDF base boards (base molding) to my drywall. I have removed the old basemolding which was very plain, and am planning on replacing it with taller MDF base molding that is of the same thickness (3/8"). I plan on priming and painting the base molding before installation. In some rooms the floor is carpeted, and in others the floor is tiled. I have a few questions, that I hope some of you will answer for me.

1. What kind of brad/ nail should I use to attach the base molding? I assume I will be nailing into studs - 16" apart.

2. Should I apply carpenters glue or some other kind of glue to the baseboard before nailing it in?

3. I have many rooms to do. I do not yet own a compressor or nailer. Is nailing by hand practical? If not, what is the least expensive nailing system suitable for my use? I see some brad gun/ compressor sets selling for approx $200, but they accept only brads upto 1.25" long. Will that do?

I thank you in advance for all the help.

[This message has been edited by Italybound (edited October 14, 2002).]

I am in the process of trimming out a couple of rooms myself. I am using 2" finishing nails for the baseboards. I also debated whether to invest or rent a nail gun but decided that pre-drilling holes through the baseboard first and than nailing was cheaper. It works great, does not split the wood and goes pretty fast.

I wouldn't use MDF for baseboard. It doesn't handle water very well and another name for baseboard is mop board because you slap the mop up against it. Kidding aside, Water can make it swell and deform. Most MDF trims I have used are already pre-primed on all four surfaces, partly because of this.

I nail with Paslode Impulse finish gun. If you hand nail, you will have to predrill. MDF is too hard to start nails without a hole.